Editorial

DON'T TAKE A SUMMER VACATION FROM READING

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For most area students, school has adjourned for summer. But summer vacation shouldn't become an excuse to quit learning. Reading should be included high on the list of summer activities for kids.

Studies show that students who read during the summer do better when classes resume in the fall. Reading crosses the curriculum, helping students develop in all areas and improve their vocabularies. Reading represents an investment in brain power.

For kids or their parents who think reading has to be dry or dreary, think again. The Cape Girardeau and Jackson public libraries and Riverside Regional Public Library are committed to reading for pleasure. Incentive programs, prizes and certificates signed by Gov. John Ashcroft are all part of the state's "Leap Into Books" summer reading program offered at these libraries.

Registration continues through June.

Cape Girardeau's Public Library will involve more than 1,000 children in programs and reading. More than 380 are enrolled in Riverside's reading program; Jackson anticipates about 350 young readers will participate.

Libraries extend their summer fun to other activities as well. Programs are as exotic as a visit by a llama and baby camel from Capetown Safari to the Cape Girardeau Public Library Monday afternoon; or a live reptile and amphibian demonstration at the Jackson Public Library June 17. Other programs teach important lessons on fire and police safety. There is even a puppet show by a pediatric dentist at the Riverside Library. Story hours and films are also on tap this summer.

As these libraries make a commitment to kids, so the kids must make a commitment to reading. Children sign "contracts," agreeing to read so many books to become eligible for prizes and awards. In Cape Girardeau, children must agree to read at least five books to participate. Jackson requires 15 books for kids to be eligible for prizes; those who read 20 or more are initiated in the Riveting Frog Pond Club. Riverside encourages youngsters to sign a 20-book agreement.

Meeting these "contracts" can help build self esteem in children, giving them a sense of accomplishment.

Another appeal of these programs is the price: These youth summer reading programs are absolutely free. Parents can play a role, too, by helping children pick out their reading selections.

Summer vacation shouldn't mean time off from reading. These summer reading programs at area libraries offer a good way to have fun while retaining key school skills. Kids will enjoy reading for pleasure this summer; parents will appreciate their children's academic progress this fall.